Measuring the Enablers of Good Governance Practices and Mediating Role of Government to Promote Public Trust

Abstract

Citizens consistently expect their government to demonstrate responsibility in every action, prioritizing the public's welfare. Drawing from the principles of virtuous governance, this research empirically explored how implementing best governance practices contributes to fostering public trust, focusing on the perceived responsiveness of authority. Data was collected from 430 respondents from five districts of Rajasthan and analyzed using Smart-PLS to construct measurement and structural models. The results indicated that when mediated through government agencies, effective governance practices exhibit both direct and indirect effects on public trust in the government. Sustained engagement and communication initiatives can cultivate a culture of ethical conduct, promoting robust and sustainable governance. Furthermore, it underscores the imperative for governments in emerging nations to prioritize the development of adequate IT infrastructure nationwide to ensure universal access to Internet services, particularly among residents in remote areas.